Real Madrid have reportedly moved a step closer to completing a deal to sign RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande, a move that could have implications for Vinicius Jr’s future at the club.
Vinicius Jr has been linked with a move away from the La Liga giants this summer, with Arsenal mentioned as a potential destination. It was reported on Saturday that Arsenal have joined the race to sign the 26-year-old, adding him to their list of potential transfer targets this summer.
Diomande's verbal agreement
Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has reported that Diomande has reached a 'verbal agreement' to complete a move to Real Madrid, provided Leipzig are able to agree a fee. Diomande is also said to have reached a similar agreement with Paris Saint-Germain, who have been strongly linked with the Ivory Coast international throughout the summer.
The report indicates that Real have agreed a contract running until at least 2031 with Diomande, while Leipzig continue to hold out for in excess of €100million (£85million) to finalise any arrangement.
Impact on Vinicius Jr and Arsenal
The ramifications of Diomande's potential switch to Madrid could shape Vinicius' long-term future in the Spanish capital, suggesting Arsenal may well be monitoring developments closely for any further updates. Vinicius' deal with Real expires next summer, which has fuelled speculation that a move away could materialise this summer as the La Liga giants look to avoid losing their prized forward on a free transfer in 12 months' time.
A recent report in The Telegraph claimed that new Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has made his position clear to club bosses, insisting he wants Vinicius to stay and would be firmly against the winger completing a transfer to Arsenal. Vinicius netted 22 goals for Madrid last season as they finished runners-up in La Liga and reached the Champions League quarter-final, and recently featured for the Brazil side that reached the last-16 of the World Cup.
